New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to six companies over allegedly misleading claims used to market products as high in protein and beneficial for maintaining or improving muscle strength. The regulator has sought explanations from the companies, asking why action should not be taken against them for claims that could potentially mislead consumers about the health benefits of their products.
The companies that have received notices are Dr Reddy’s, Nestlé Health Science, Tirupati Wellness, Flipkart, Amazon and Netmeds. The notices were issued after the regulator raised concerns about the way certain products were promoted, particularly through claims relating to protein content, muscle strength, immunity and energy levels.
In a social media post on Thursday, FSSAI confirmed that notices had been sent to the six companies. The regulator has asked them to explain why proceedings should not be initiated against them over the disputed claims.
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Claims About Muscle Strength and Protein Under Scrutiny
FSSAI has expressed concern that statements and claims displayed on product packaging may create an inaccurate impression of the benefits consumers can expect from using the products. Claims suggesting that products contain more protein or help strengthen muscles may influence purchasing decisions, particularly among consumers looking for nutritional supplements or products associated with fitness and general well-being.
The regulator has also flagged claims linked to improving immunity and boosting energy. Such statements, when presented without adequate clarity or in a manner that overstates the expected benefits, could leave consumers with misleading impressions about a product’s nutritional value or health effects.
The issue centres on how these benefits are communicated to buyers. Consumers often rely on packaging information when comparing products, assessing nutritional content and deciding whether a particular item meets their dietary needs. Claims that appear to promise specific health outcomes can therefore play an important role in influencing their choices.
The notices indicate that FSSAI wants the companies to clarify the basis and presentation of the claims that have attracted regulatory scrutiny.
Six Companies Asked to Explain Their Position
The notices have been sent to Dr Reddy’s, Nestlé Health Science and Tirupati Wellness, along with e-commerce platforms Flipkart, Amazon and Netmeds.
The inclusion of online platforms brings attention to the way products are marketed and presented to consumers through digital marketplaces, in addition to claims appearing on product packaging. Consumers shopping online may depend on product descriptions, promotional statements and nutritional information while making purchasing decisions.
FSSAI has asked the six companies to explain why action should not be taken against them. The notices provide an opportunity for the companies to respond to the concerns raised by the regulator before any further action is considered.
The issuance of notices does not, by itself, establish that the companies have violated the law. The next steps will depend on the explanations submitted and the regulator’s assessment of the claims in question.
Consumer Protection at the Centre of the Issue
The action highlights the importance of accurate and clear information in the marketing of food products and nutritional supplements. Claims about protein, muscle development, immunity and energy can be particularly influential for consumers seeking products to support exercise, fitness or everyday nutritional requirements.
When such claims are presented in a way that exaggerates benefits or creates confusion, consumers may find it difficult to distinguish between a product’s established nutritional characteristics and the outcomes suggested by its marketing.
For regulators, the challenge is to ensure that product labels and promotional material communicate benefits responsibly and do not create unjustified expectations. Clear information allows consumers to make better-informed decisions about the products they purchase and consume.
FSSAI’s notices seek explanations from the six companies over the disputed claims. The regulator has not announced a final finding against them in the matter. Any further action will depend on the responses received and the conclusions reached after examining the issues raised in the notices.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
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